Pleasant Rd Townhouses, Hawthorn East

By Chan Architecture

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Constructing two townhouses on a typical quarter-acre suburban block always poses a unique set of challenges.  Each townhouse has to read as a single entity so as to fit within the existing streetscape, and yet have its’ own identity.  Neighbouring properties often have side windows to consider and backyards that can’t be overshadowed or overlooked.  Once subdivided, the sites are often long and narrow and so the challenge is how to give the same impression of space and light as a single home on half a block.

Townhouses are very popular amongst downsizers and families with older children, so downstairs master bedrooms are a must, plus a bright and modern kitchen and two separate living spaces.  They also have to have ample storage, security, and very low maintenance.

The response to this brief was to create two, side by side townhouses set at different heights so as to give each building a sense of difference and yet can still read as a single entity.  The first floors are set in from the side boundaries and towards the front of the block to prevent overshadowing of neighbours, as well as to allow for higher ceilings on the ground floor towards the rear.   The setbacks also allow numerous highlight windows and skylights for natural light throughout the day.

The garage, front door, study window and authority services are all covered in lightweight aluminium batten screening which creates visually cleaner lines, with low maintenance, the metal cladding on the first floor.

The new living area opens up towards the garden, via fully openable stacker doors to allow the backyard to be part of the house, allow sunlight to penetrate into the living spaces in the winter months, and allow for natural ventilation to run through the entire house.

The materials were carefully chosen to provide texture and subtle variety to give each space its' own individuality and to create different moods throughout the house, in particular with the selection of floor and wall tiles, light fittings and floor finishes.

Photography: Tatjana Plitt Photography

Chan Architecture
Victoria
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##Pleasant Rd Townhouses, Hawthorn East
##Pleasant Rd Townhouses, Hawthorn East
##Pleasant Rd Townhouses, Hawthorn East
##Pleasant Rd Townhouses, Hawthorn East
##Pleasant Rd Townhouses, Hawthorn East
##Pleasant Rd Townhouses, Hawthorn East
##Pleasant Rd Townhouses, Hawthorn East
##Pleasant Rd Townhouses, Hawthorn East
##Pleasant Rd Townhouses, Hawthorn East
##Pleasant Rd Townhouses, Hawthorn East

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Pleasant Rd Townhouses, Hawthorn East

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Our Practice

Chan Architecture is boutique, award-winning Melbourne-based architectural practice with a strong focus on design. Our philosophy is to create design-oriented, client-focused buildings that are both beautiful and sustainable. We also have a strong appreciation of our client's needs and see each project as a close collaboration between client, architect, and builder.

We see our role as the principal project consultant, providing not only high-quality design and documentation, but also managing and coordinating all other consultants, authorities, and builders to ensure we all work towards a successful outcome.

Chan Architecture has completed a number of successful residential projects across Melbourne, including renovations and extensions, new houses, and multi-unit developments.

Our team is experienced, innovative, and committed to achieving an outstanding result for every project. Just as importantly, we treat every project whether small, large, simple, or complex with absolute commitment and dedication. We are determined to ensure that the completed design and built project satisfies all the client's needs, objectives, and aspirations.

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